Constitution framing and Reluctance of British to include Indians

Published on 07 Oct 2025

The reluctance of the British to include Indians in the act of framing the constitution stemmed from their desire to maintain control and preserve colonial interests.

• Simon Commission: The all-British Simon Commission, established in 1927, excluded Indians, sparking nationwide protests, highlighting British indifference to Indian involvement in shaping their political destiny

• Racial Bias: British colonial mindset deemed Indians inferior, unfit for self-governance, reflecting racial bias. Exclusion from the constitutional process reinforced belief in British superiority and perpetuated discriminatory policies.

• Example: implementation of the Rowlatt Act in 1919, which authorized detention without trial, showcased British perceptions of Indian inferiority.

• Fear of Losing Control: British authorities feared Indian involvement in constitution-making would lead to demands for autonomy and independence. They aimed to retain control to safeguard imperial interests.

• Example: Government of India Act 1919, while introducing some reforms, retained ultimate control in British hands through Viceroy’s authority to override decisions.

• Divide and Rule Policy: British "divide and rule" strategy exploited religious tensions, excluding Indians from constitutional discussions to exacerbate divisions, hindering unity and the emergence of a united front for self-governance.

• Example: Carrot and stick policy with nationalists especially the moderates and extremists.

• Delay Tactics: Excluding Indians from constitution-making delayed reforms, prolonging British rule. Postponing dialogue with Indian leaders aimed to maintain power and defer transfer of authority.

• Example: postponement of constitutional reforms post-World War I despite Indian nationalist demands prolonged British rule and sparked discontent.

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
Constitution framing and Reluctance of British to include Indians Simon Commission Racial Bias Rowlatt Act Government of India Act 1919 Divide and Rule Carrot and stick

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Freedom Struggle